1-First Step: Get everything ready Start by gathering all ingredients and setting out a large pot, a skillet, a mixing bowl, and tongs. This recipe moves quickly once the noodles are cooked, so it helps to have everything chopped, grated, and measured before you begin. Mince the garlic, chop the bacon, and grate the Parmesan cheese if it is not already ready to use.

2-Second Step: Cook the ramen noodles Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 9 ounces of ramen noodles and cook them according to package directions, usually just a few minutes. Since you are discarding the seasoning packets, you only need the noodles themselves. Drain them well, but keep the noodles nearby because they will go into the skillet right away.

3-Third Step: Crisp the bacon Set a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Once the oil is warm, add the chopped bacon. Cook it for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring often, until it becomes crisp and the fat starts to render. The bacon should look browned and smell smoky and rich. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. Stir constantly so it does not burn. You only want to soften the garlic and bring out its aroma. At this point, the skillet should smell amazing.

4-Fourth Step: Mix the sauce base While the bacon cooks, crack the 2 large eggs into a mixing bowl. Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and a small pinch of salt. Whisk everything together until the mixture looks thick and well blended. It may seem dry at first, but the hot noodles and bacon fat will loosen it into a creamy sauce.

5-Fifth Step: Combine the noodles with the bacon Add the drained ramen noodles straight into the skillet with the bacon and garlic. Toss everything together so the noodles are coated in the bacon fat. If the skillet looks too dry, you can add a spoonful of reserved noodle water to help the noodles move easily. Keep the heat low at this point.

6-Sixth Step: Create the carbonara sauce Turn the heat off completely before adding the egg mixture. Pour the egg and Parmesan blend over the hot noodles and toss quickly and continuously. The heat from the noodles will gently cook the eggs and melt the cheese, creating a glossy sauce. Work fast so the eggs do not scramble. If the mixture feels too thick, add a splash of hot noodle water and toss again.

7-Final Step: Finish and serve Taste the Ramen Carbonara and add more salt or pepper if needed. Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil over the top and give everything one last toss. Serve right away while the noodles are warm and the sauce is silky. For extra texture, you can add a little more Parmesan on top before bringing it to the table.